U.S. patent application number 16/918867 was filed with the patent office on 2020-10-22 for haptic transducer and footplate coupled to the same.
The applicant listed for this patent is SONICSENSORY, INC.. Invention is credited to Jens Jonasson, Richard Warren Little, Sam Sarcia, Brock Maxwell Seiler, Erik Stefansson, Clayton Williamson.
Application Number | 20200331027 16/918867 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000004969226 |
Filed Date | 2020-10-22 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20200331027 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Williamson; Clayton ; et
al. |
October 22, 2020 |
HAPTIC TRANSDUCER AND FOOTPLATE COUPLED TO THE SAME
Abstract
A haptic transducer is provided, comprising a motor including a
yoke, an inner cavity formed by the yoke, and a magnet assembly
disposed within the inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the
magnet assembly; a suspension extending concentrically around the
diaphragm and having an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an
outer edge attached to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the
diaphragm and suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet
assembly; a first hole extending through the motor; and a second
hole axially aligned with the first hole and extending through the
diaphragm, a fastener extending through the first hole into the
second hole. A footplate system is also provided, comprising a
footplate configured for placement in a piece of footwear; a moving
motor transducer configured to transfer haptic sensations to the
footplate; and a top fastener configured to secure the haptic
transducer to the footplate.
Inventors: |
Williamson; Clayton;
(Moorpark, CA) ; Seiler; Brock Maxwell; (Jefferson
Valley, NY) ; Sarcia; Sam; (Lakeside, CA) ;
Stefansson; Erik; (Los Angeles, CA) ; Little; Richard
Warren; (Los Angeles, CA) ; Jonasson; Jens;
(Los Angeles, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SONICSENSORY, INC. |
Los Angeles |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000004969226 |
Appl. No.: |
16/918867 |
Filed: |
July 1, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15659349 |
Jul 25, 2017 |
|
|
|
16918867 |
|
|
|
|
62366581 |
Jul 25, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 23/00 20130101;
A43B 3/0005 20130101; B06B 1/045 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B06B 1/04 20060101
B06B001/04; A43B 23/00 20060101 A43B023/00; A43B 3/00 20060101
A43B003/00 |
Claims
1. A moving motor transducer, comprising: a motor including a yoke,
an inner cavity formed by the yoke, and a magnet assembly disposed
within the inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the magnet
assembly; a suspension extending concentrically around the
diaphragm and having an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an
outer edge attached to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the
diaphragm and suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet
assembly; a first hole extending through the motor; and a second
hole axially aligned with the first hole and extending through the
diaphragm.
2. The moving motor transducer of claim 1, further comprising a
bushing element configured to line an interior wall of the first
hole.
3. The moving motor transducer of claim 2, wherein the bushing
element is further configured to extend outside the first hole and
be coupled to the magnet assembly of the motor.
4. The moving motor transducer of claim 2, wherein the bushing
element is further configured to extend outside the first hole and
be coupled to the yoke of the motor.
5. The moving motor transducer of claim 2, wherein the first hole
is configured to provide a first lateral clearance between the
bushing element and a fastener coupled to the first hole.
6. The moving motor transducer of claim 5, the first lateral
clearance is less than a second lateral clearance provided between
the magnet assembly and the coil.
7. The moving motor transducer of claim 1, further comprising a
mating element disposed in the second hole and configured to secure
a fastener to the second hole.
8. The moving motor transducer of claim 7, wherein the fastener
extends through the first hole towards the second hole, so as to be
coupled to the motor and the diaphragm.
9. The moving motor transducer of claim 7, wherein the mating
element includes a threaded wall configured for attachment to a
threaded surface of the fastener.
10. The moving motor transducer of claim 7, wherein the mating
element is further configured to secure a second fastener to the
second hole, the second fastener extending into the second hole
from a top surface of the diaphragm.
11. The moving motor transducer of claim 1, wherein the first hole
and the second hole are aligned with a central axis of the
motor.
12. A haptic transducer system, comprising: a motor including a
yoke, an inner cavity formed by the yoke, and a magnet assembly
disposed within the inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the
magnet assembly; a suspension extending concentrically around the
diaphragm and having an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an
outer edge attached to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the
diaphragm and suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet
assembly; a first hole extending through the motor; a second hole
axially aligned with the first hole and extending through the
diaphragm; and a fastener extending through the first hole into the
second hole.
13. The haptic transducer system of claim 12, further comprising a
bushing element disposed within the first hole and configured to
surround the fastener.
14. The haptic transducer system of claim 13, wherein a first
clearance between the bushing element and the fastener is less than
a second clearance between the magnet assembly and the coil.
15. The haptic transducer system of claim 12, wherein the fastener
comprises a head portion disposed outside the first hole adjacent
the yoke.
16. The haptic transducer system of claim 12, further comprising a
mating element disposed in the second hole and configured to secure
the fastener to the second hole.
17. The haptic transducer system of claim 16, wherein the mating
element includes a threaded wall configured for attachment to a
threaded surface of the fastener.
18. The haptic transducer system of claim 16, further comprising a
second fastener extending into the second hole from a top surface
of the diaphragm, the mating element being further configured to
secure the second fastener to the second hole.
19. The haptic transducer system of claim 18, wherein the second
fastener is configured to secure the diaphragm to a footplate
configured for placement in a piece of footwear.
20. The haptic transducer system of claim 19, wherein a head
portion of the second fastener is coupled to the footplate, and a
threaded portion of the second fastener is coupled to the mating
element.
21. A footplate system, comprising: a footplate configured for
placement in a piece of footwear; a moving motor transducer
configured to transfer haptic sensations to the footplate; and a
top fastener configured to secure the moving motor transducer to
the footplate.
22. The footplate system of claim 21, further comprising: a bottom
fastener inserted through a bottom surface of the moving motor
transducer for coupling to a motor of the transducer and a
diaphragm of the transducer, wherein the top fastener couples the
diaphragm to the footplate.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
Non-provisional application Ser. No. 15/659,349, filed Jul. 25,
2017, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.
No. 62/366,581, filed on Jul. 25, 2016, the entire contents of both
being incorporated by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Consumers of multi-media entertainment are seeking methods
of heightened multi-sensory immersion. Existing systems for
providing audio immersion includes use of a subwoofer to feel the
low tones of music and to improve the audio of a motion picture or
a video game, and the use of surround sound to immerse the user in
a more entertaining experience. Aside from audio content, these
methods do not provide a multi-sensory stimulation while in a
virtual reality or other audio-visual scenario. These methods are
exposed in an open environment including multiple stands, wires,
and other devices that impart stimuli and are used by more than one
person at a time. Furthermore, these methods may be damaging to the
ears because they are often pushed too high in volume to create the
immersive sound and feeling. Moreover, sub-woofers, in particular,
are not convenient for users that prefer experiencing multi-media
entertainment while "on the go," as the physical size of sub-woofer
devices prevent portability. At the same time, other existing
devices, such as conventional earphones, are not capable of
providing the same low frequency effect as sub-woofers.
[0003] Another area for providing multi-sensory immersion is
tactile or haptic stimulation, which can make an entertainment
experience even more enjoyable when combined with audio and/or
audio-visual immersion. For example, vibrations generated based on
audio signals for a musical piece can be synchronized with the
audio signals to provide an enhanced music experience where the
user both hears and feels the music. Some existing haptic devices,
like piezo-electric transducers, are separate from the audio/visual
output devices and therefore, require separate components to
produce synchronized operation with the rest of the multi-media
experience. Other existing haptic devices, such as bass shakers and
multifunction transducers, can provide both audio and tactile
stimulation but have various drawbacks. For example, most bass
shakers have poor dampening characteristics that can cause
unpleasant lingering vibrations. Also, most multifunction
transducers have predetermined resonant frequencies that are
difficult to modify without disassembly.
[0004] Another drawback of existing haptic transducers, such as
moving motor transducers, is that they may be susceptible to
permanent damage upon being dropped or thrown, or otherwise
experiencing an externally applied mechanical shock. For example,
in such scenarios, the shock can cause undesirable lateral motion
of a motor of the transducer relative to a voice coil disposed
around the motor and a supporting structure, or dome, coupled to
the voice coil. While a spider or spring element is coupled between
the dome and the motor to control the motion of the motor, it
primarily does so in the direction of the transducer's central
axis. That is, the spider is not capable of effectively controlling
the lateral motion of the motor. If the lateral motion is severe
enough, it can cause the motor to crash into the voice coil.
Because the voice coil is structurally weak, this crash can
permanently damage the voice coil and thus, the transducer.
[0005] Some existing moving motor transducers include a second
spring element configured to add lateral stiffness for controlling
the lateral motion of the motor or other moving parts of the
transducer. However, the additional spring has the added
consequence of making the moving motor transducer larger, which may
not be desirable, for wearable product designs and other products
with size constraints, for example.
[0006] Another potential solution for controlling lateral motion in
moving motor transducers is to insert a magnetic fluid (e.g.,
ferrofluid) into the air gap where the voice coil is located to add
hydraulic stiffness, as is done in some moving coil transducers.
However, in moving motor transducers, the hydraulic stiffness is
too small to counterbalance the motion of the heavy motor acting
under the forces of an externally applied mechanical shock.
[0007] Accordingly, there is still a need for an improved haptic
transducer that is compact in size but can still effectively
protect against externally applied mechanical shocks, as well as an
improved haptic transducer that can be used to provide a personal
multisensory experience while in a virtual reality, surround sound,
or other audio-visual scenario, by capturing the energy, vibration,
or other immersive stimuli associated with the audio-visual content
and delivering the immersive content in synchrony with the
audio-visual content to the person of the user.
SUMMARY
[0008] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a
compact haptic transducer configured to receive electrical signals
(e.g., audio and/or haptic signals) from a controller through
either a wired or wireless connection. In certain embodiments, the
haptic transducer includes a unique design that allows for a more
rugged and durable driver configured to provide haptic feedback to
the user through footwear worn by the user. The controller can be
in communication with an entertainment system, and the haptic
transducer can be configured to impart a vibration based on an
indication of reproduced sound to enhance an entertainment
experience. For example, the haptic transducer may dramatically
improve the experience of listening to music, watching a movie, or
playing a video game.
[0009] Embodiments also include a footplate configured to be
coupled to the haptic transducer and for placement in an article of
footwear, such as a shoe. Embodiments can also include a footwear
device for enhancing an entertainment experience by including a
haptic transducer mounted to a footplate of the footwear. Placing
the haptic transducer into footwear can expand the audio event
outside the confines of the head to involve the body, or at least a
foot of the user, in an immersive, tactile, and portable
experience. For example, the vibrations can simulate force feedback
that would resonate from the ground at a live event.
[0010] One example embodiment includes a moving motor transducer
comprising a motor including a yoke, an inner cavity formed by the
yoke, and a magnet assembly disposed within the inner cavity; a
diaphragm disposed above the magnet assembly; a suspension
extending concentrically around the diaphragm and having an inner
edge attached to the diaphragm and an outer edge attached to the
yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the diaphragm and suspended
within the inner cavity around the magnet assembly; a first hole
extending through the motor; and a second hole axially aligned with
the first hole and extending through the diaphragm.
[0011] Another exemplary embodiment includes a haptic transducer
system, comprising a motor including a yoke, an inner cavity formed
by the yoke, and a magnet assembly disposed within the inner
cavity; a diaphragm disposed above the magnet assembly; a
suspension extending concentrically around the diaphragm and having
an inner edge attached to the diaphragm and an outer edge attached
to the yoke; a cylindrical coil coupled to the diaphragm and
suspended within the inner cavity around the magnet assembly; a
first hole extending through the motor; a second hole axially
aligned with the first hole and extending through the diaphragm;
and a fastener extending through the first hole into the second
hole.
[0012] Another exemplary embodiment includes a footplate system
comprising a footplate configured for placement in a piece of
footwear; a moving motor transducer configured to transfer haptic
sensations to the footplate; and a top fastener configured to
secure the haptic transducer to the footplate.
[0013] The appended claims define this application. The present
disclosure summarizes aspects of the embodiments and should not be
used to limit the claims. Other implementations are contemplated in
accordance with the techniques described herein, as will be
apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art upon examination
of the following drawings and detailed description, and these
implementations are intended to be within the scope of this
application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] For a better understanding of the invention, reference may
be made to embodiments shown in the following drawings. The
components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and related
elements may be omitted to emphasize and clearly illustrate the
novel features described herein. In addition, system components can
be variously arranged, as known in the art. In the figures, like
referenced numerals may refer to like parts throughout the
different figures unless otherwise specified.
[0015] FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of an example
haptic transducer in accordance with embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 1A in accordance with embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 1C illustrates a bottom perspective view of the haptic
transducer of FIG. 1A in accordance with embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the haptic
transducer of FIG. 1B in accordance with embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 1E illustrates a partial, close-up cross-sectional view
of the haptic transducer of FIG. 1D, in accordance with
embodiments.
[0020] FIG. 1F illustrates a top perspective view of example
electrical leads included in the haptic transducer of FIG. 1A, in
accordance with embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 1G illustrates a top view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 1A in accordance with embodiments.
[0022] FIG. 2A illustrates a bottom perspective view of an example
footplate configured to receive the haptic transducer of FIG. 1A in
accordance with embodiments.
[0023] FIG. 2B illustrates a partially transparent, top perspective
of the footplate of FIG. 2A coupled to the haptic transducer of
FIG. 1A in accordance with embodiments.
[0024] FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the footplate
and haptic transducer shown in FIG. 2B in accordance with
embodiments.
[0025] FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of another
example haptic transducer in accordance with embodiments.
[0026] FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 3A in accordance with embodiments.
[0027] FIG. 3C illustrates a side view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 3C in accordance with embodiments.
[0028] FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional view of another
example haptic transducer in accordance with embodiments.
[0029] FIG. 4B illustrates a top view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 4A in accordance with embodiments.
[0030] FIG. 4C illustrates a side view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 4A in accordance with embodiments.
[0031] FIG. 5A illustrates a top perspective view of another
exemplary haptic transducer in accordance with embodiments.
[0032] FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom perspective view of the haptic
transducer of FIG. 5A in accordance with embodiments.
[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the haptic
transducer of FIG. 5A in accordance with embodiments.
[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates a top view of the haptic transducer of
FIG. 5A without a fastener coupled thereto, in accordance with
embodiments.
[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the haptic
transducer shown in FIG. 6 coupled to an exemplary footplate, in
accordance with embodiments.
[0036] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another
exemplary haptic transducer in accordance with embodiments.
[0037] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the haptic
transducer shown in FIG. 6 coupled to the exemplary footplate of
FIG. 8 using an alternative fasting mechanism, in accordance with
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0038] While the haptic transducer and footplate of the present
disclosure may be embodied in various forms, the Figures show and
this Specification describes some exemplary and non-limiting
embodiments of the haptic transducer and footplate. The present
disclosure is an exemplification of the haptic transducer and
footplate and is not limited to the specific illustrated and
described embodiments. Not all of the depicted or described
components may be required, and some embodiments may include
additional, different, or fewer components. The arrangement and
type of components may vary without departing from the spirit or
scope of the claims set forth herein.
[0039] Existing haptic transducer devices or drivers can include a
yoke, a magnet, a top plate, a frame or basket, a voice coil, a
spider or suspension, and a diaphragm (e.g., a cone or a dome). The
magnet sits above the yoke and is the driving force of the driver.
The top plate together with the magnet form a magnetic assembly of
the driver, while the yoke plus the magnetic assembly form the
motor. The yoke is at the back or bottom of the driver, and the
design of the yoke affects the efficiency and stability of the
magnet assembly within the motor. The diaphragm is supported by the
frame and is attached to the coil. The spider is a ring of flexible
material that is attached between the frame and the coil and
configured to hold the coil in position and dampening oscillations
of the coil and the diaphragm, but also allow them to move back and
forth freely. Unlike traditional speakers, both the coil and the
motor of the haptic transducer (also known as a moving motor
transducer) are resiliently mounted within the housing and capable
of oscillating.
[0040] Electrical signals are transmitted to the coil through one
or more electrical leads attached to the haptic transducer. The
electrical signals may include audio or haptic information. The
coil is a basic electromagnet and is suspended in a magnetic field
created by the magnetic assembly. Applying electrical signals to
the coil causes the coil to move back and forth (or up and down),
like a piston, relative to the magnetic assembly, due to changes in
the electromagnet's polar orientation each time the electrical
current flowing through the coil changes direction. This movement
pushes and pulls on the diaphragm attached to the coil, which
causes the diaphragm to vibrate. The coil movement also drives the
motor to oscillate. In this manner, the coil may serve as an
actuator for moving the diaphragm and the motor.
[0041] Due to its mass and flexible mounting, the motor oscillates
at a relatively low frequency within the range of frequencies that
are easily perceptible to a user. When the coil is excited by
signals at a frequency in the resonant frequency range of the
transducer, the transducer will vibrate to produce haptic signals.
A user can place the transducer in close proximity to the user's
body to perceive tactile sensations generated by these haptic
signals. In some cases, the haptic signals are transmitted to the
user through inertial vibration of an outer housing of the
transducer.
[0042] Various embodiments provide a haptic transducer uniquely
configured for mounting to a footplate designed for placement in a
shoe or other footwear. In certain embodiments, the haptic
transducer is configured to provide a compact and rugged driver
system that is capable of withstanding pressure from a user,
particularly when placed in footwear, and externally applied
mechanical shocks (e.g., when dropped or thrown), while still
effectively providing haptic feedback to the wearer. This rugged
design is possible due to certain design considerations.
[0043] First, the haptic transducer includes fixed electrical leads
for receiving the electrical signals and providing a more rugged
electrical connection, rather than the flexible leads that are
found in conventional haptic transducers and are prone to
mechanical failure. Second, the haptic transducer includes a
"razorback" or winding spider configured to more evenly distribute
stresses across the spider, provide a more compact form factor for
the transducer, and provide a larger range for safe excursion.
Third, the haptic transducer includes a floating motor and a
floating coil, which allows for dual modes of operation depending
on the amount of pressure applied to the haptic transducer device,
for example, by the user's foot when worn within a shoe. Fourth,
the haptic transducer can be configured for attachment to a
footplate portion of a shoe using one or more mechanical techniques
designed to (i) maximize the amount of surface area on the haptic
transducer that is in contact with, and imparting vibrations to,
the footplate, (ii) provide a secure and simple connection that
allows for rotational and axial alignment between the footplate and
the transducer, and (iii) define a more resilient impact point for
when externally applied mechanical shocks are applied to the
transducer. A fifth feature of the haptic transducer is an offset
dome configured to reduce stresses on and increase excursion of the
spider, which provides for greater reliability and durability than
most larger drivers.
[0044] FIGS. 1A-1G illustrate multiple views of an exemplary haptic
transducer device 100 (or "haptic transducer") in accordance with
embodiments. FIG. 1A illustrates a top perspective view of the
haptic transducer 100. FIGS. 1B and 1C provide side and bottom
perspective views, respectively, of an outer housing of the haptic
transducer 100. As shown, the haptic transducer 100 includes a pair
of fixed leads 102, a spider 104, and a diaphragm 106.
[0045] As shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 1D and 1E,
the diaphragm 106 is generally bell-shaped but with a stepped
configuration comprised of a dome-like top portion coupled to a
flared lower portion. The dome-like top portion includes a
substantially flat top surface 106a and a first sidewall that
extends downwards from, and substantially perpendicular to, the top
surface 106a. The flared lower portion includes an inner ledge 106b
that extends outwards from, and substantially perpendicular to, the
first sidewall, and a second sidewall 106c that extends downwards
from, and substantially perpendicular to, the inner ledge 106b. As
shown, the inner ledge 106b (also referred to herein as a "ledge")
projects or flares out from a bottom of the top portion, such that
the ledge 106b projects outwards relative to, and is positioned
vertically below, the top surface 106a. The ledge 106b then curves
or steps downwards to form the second sidewall 106c (also referred
to herein as a "sidewall"), which extends down towards and into the
inner cavity of the haptic transducer 100. In embodiments, an
overall height of the diaphragm 106 (e.g., a height of the first
sidewall plus a height of the second sidewall 106c) may be selected
based on the maximum excursion, or vertical movement, of the
driver, or in order to provide enough room for such excursion
without collision.
[0046] The spider 104 is attached to the ledge 106b of the
diaphragm 106. As shown in the top view of FIG. 1G, the spider 104
has a generally annular shape that extends concentrically around
the diaphragm 106. In certain embodiments, the spider 104 is
attached to the diaphragm 106 by glue or other adhesive
material.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1A, the top surface 106a of the diaphragm
106 (also referred to herein as a "dome") provides a housing or
mounting surface for the fixed leads 102. The dome 106 also
includes an attachment groove 108 integrated into the top surface
106a of the dome 106 and centered on the dome 106. This built-in
attachment groove 108 can be configured to form a grove portion of
a tongue and grove connection between the transducer 100 and a
footplate, as described in more detail herein with respect to FIGS.
2A-2C. When placed in a shoe, for example, a bottom surface of the
haptic transducer 100 faces a bottom of the shoe and the top
surface 106a of the transducer 100 can face and be attached to an
underside of the footplate, such that the transducer 100 is
positioned between the footplate and the shoe. In embodiments, the
dome 106 may be made of plastic or other non-magnetic material.
[0048] As better illustrated by the cross-sectional views in FIGS.
1D and 1E, the transducer 100 also includes a yoke 110 that forms
the bottom surface and side walls (or lower housing) of the haptic
transducer 100. As shown, an outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110
extends around a perimeter of the yoke 110 to support or attach to
the spider 104. A magnet 112 is positioned within an inner cavity
113 or center of the yoke 110, which is surrounded by the outer
ledge 110a, as shown in FIG. 1D. A top plate 114 sits above the
magnet 112. In embodiments, the yoke 110, the magnet 112, and the
top plate 114 can make up a motor of the transducer 100, while the
magnet 112 and top plate 114 make up a magnetic assembly of the
motor. In some embodiments, the magnetic assembly further includes
a bottom plate 115 positioned between the magnet 112 and the yoke
110.
[0049] As shown, the yoke 110 serves as, at least part of, an outer
housing for the transducer 100. In some embodiments, an overall
diameter of the transducer 100 is determined by, or substantially
equal to, an overall diameter of the yoke 110. The yoke 110 can
also serve as the frame or basket of the transducer 100. For
example, conventional transducers use a separate frame piece to
locate the motor (i.e. the magnet, top plate, yoke, and pedestal)
relative to the moving suspension and diaphragm assembly. In the
illustrated embodiment, the yoke 110 is configured to support the
suspension-diaphragm assembly (e.g., via the connection between the
spider 104 and the outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110), which
eliminates the need for a separate frame in the transducer 100. The
frame-less design of the transducer 100 reduces manufacturing costs
(e.g., due to the removal of the frame piece) and simplifies
assembly of the transducer 100. The frame-less design also
increases durability by removing the possibility of failure modes
tied to the frame (e.g., the plastic frame piece weakening with
heat) or the bonding of the frame to other components.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 1D, the transducer 100 further includes a
coil 116. In some embodiments, the coil 116 can include a length of
wire (e.g., copper wire) wound around a core to form a traditional
electromagnet. In other embodiments, the coil 116 can be an etched
coil formed by printing or etching wire windings directly onto a
flexible material (e.g., metallic ribbon). In the illustrated
embodiment, the coil 116 has a generally annular shape, and a top
end of the coil 116 is coupled to the downward-extending, lower
sidewall 106c of the dome 106. As shown, the coil 116 can be
coupled to an inside of the sidewall 106c. In other embodiments,
the coil 116 may be attached to an outside of the sidewall 106c
(not shown). As illustrated in FIGS. 1D and 1E, the coil 116 forms
a generally flat surface or sidewall that extends downwards from
the dome 106 into the inner cavity 113 and towards the top plate
114. The coil 116 also extends concentrically around the top plate
114 and the magnet 112.
[0051] In embodiments, placement, as well as sizing, of the coil
116 can be configured to avoid contact with the pieces of the
magnetic assembly. For example, as shown, only the top end of the
coil 116 may be attached to another surface (i.e. the sidewall 106c
of the dome 106), so that a bottom portion of the coil 116 is
suspended or floating between the sidewalls of the yoke 110 and the
magnet 112, or within the magnetic gap formed thereby. In
embodiments, the attachment or joint between the dome 106 and the
coil 116 along the sidewall 106c is concealed by, or positioned
under, the spider 104. As a result, the attachment point can travel
into, or be disposed within, the magnetic gap. This configuration
can prevent the coil 116 from limiting the excursion of the motor.
For example, in a conventional transducer, the joint between the
dome and the coil typically provides a hard stop that collides with
the yoke and thus, limits the excursion of the motor. In one
example embodiment, the transducer 100 can be made approximately
two millimeters thinner by fully immersing the joint between the
coil 116 and the dome 106 within the gap formed between the yoke
110 and the magnet 112.
[0052] In various embodiments, the motor, which includes the yolk
110, the magnet 112, and the top plate 114, is also configured to
be floating, at least relative to the coil 116. The floating motor
is achieved by coupling only the outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110
to an outer diameter 104a of the spider 104 and by coupling an
inner diameter 104b of the spider 104 to the ledge 106b of the dome
106. Thus, the motor is not connected to the coil 116 and can move
independently of the coil. By contrast, in conventional haptic
transducers, the coil is attached directly to the yoke, or the pole
piece included in the yoke, and to the spider, such that the motor
is not free to move relative to the coil.
[0053] In embodiments, the floating motor and the floating coil 116
enable the transducer 100 to have two modes of operation when
attached to a footplate and included in a piece of footwear worn by
the user. The first mode of operation can be initiated when only
light pressure is applied to the transducer 100 (e.g., by the foot
of the user) and therefore, the coil 116 is still free to move
within the space between the magnet 112 and the yoke 110. The
second mode of operation can be initiated when heavy pressure is
applied to the transducer 100 and therefore, the coil 116 is no
longer free to move, but the motor of the transducer 100 is still
free to move relative to the footplate. This option for dual
operational modes allows for a more efficient use of transducer
resources and helps improve durability and reliability of the
transducer 100.
[0054] Moreover, the transducer 100 is designed such that a center
of gravity of the moving parts within the transducer 100 is aligned
with a central axis of the coil 116, and a majority of the mass
included in the transducer 100 is positioned below the coil 116,
such as, for example, the magnet 112, the plates 114 and 115, and a
bottom portion of the yoke 110, as shown in FIG. 1D. As a result,
as the floating motor moves up and down within the transducer 100
during operation, the movement is more evenly distributed along a
central axis of the transducer 100, thereby avoiding, or reducing
the tendency for, side to side movement, such as, e.g., rocking,
tilting, or pendulum motion. This increased stability is at least
partially due to the frameless design of the transducer 100, which
helps move the center of gravity of the motor closer to the central
axis of the coil.
[0055] As shown in FIG. 1D, the spider 104 (also referred to herein
as a "suspension") is positioned above the coil 116 and the
magnetic assembly of the haptic transducer 100. As also shown, the
spider 104 is coupled between the ledge 106b of the dome 106 and
the outer edge 110a of the yoke 110. In embodiments, this spider
design helps provide the haptic transducer 100 with several
advantageous improvements over conventional haptic transducer
designs. For example, in a conventional haptic transducer, the
diaphragm is attached to an outer diameter of the frame, and the
spider is attached between an inner diameter of the frame and the
coil, such that the overall diameter of the transducer is
determined by the outer diameter of the frame/diaphragm. In the
illustrated embodiments, the frame is removed, and instead, an
outer diameter of the yoke 110 determines the overall diameter of
the transducer 100. In addition, the diaphragm or dome 106 has an
offset design, relative to the driver. In particular, the dome 106
is configured to have a diameter that is smaller than an overall
diameter of the transducer 100 by coupling the spider or suspension
104 between the ledge 106b of the dome 106 and the outer edge 110a
of the yoke 110. Also, the ledge 106b of the dome 106 is configured
to have an inner diameter that is smaller than a diameter of the
coil 116, and the lower sidewall 106c of the dome 106 is configured
to extend just outside of the coil 116, such that an overall
diameter of the dome 106 overlaps with, or exceeds, the diameter of
the coil 116. This configuration of the spider 104, the coil 116,
and the offset dome 106 helps achieve dual goals of keeping an
overall diameter of the transducer 100 as small as possible to
obtain a smaller overall form factor, and creating a larger
distance or clearance between an outer edge 104a and an inner edge
104b of the spider 104 for improved coil operation.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 1G, the spider 104 can be configured to
have a generally annular shape with a "razorback" or winding design
formed by a plurality of arms 104d or ribs extending between the
outer spider edge 104a and the inner spider edge 104b. The inner
edge 104b of the spider 104 forms an open center 104c, and a top
portion of the dome 106 extends through the open center 104c of the
spider 104. In embodiments, the spider 104 can be composed of any
suitable flexible but sturdy material (e.g., metal or plastic) that
is capable of withstanding or absorbing the stresses applied
thereto. As shown in FIG. 1E, the inner edge 104b of the spider 104
is positioned on and attached to the ledge 106b of the dome 106 and
has a width configured to substantially match a width of the ledge
106b of the dome 106. Likewise, the outer edge 104a of the spider
104 is positioned on and attached to the outer ledge 110a of the
yoke 110 and has a width configured to substantially match a width
of the outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110. In embodiments, the spider
104 is configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to make these two
attachment areas as narrow as possible while still creating a
sturdy contact with the respective surfaces. By making the
attachment areas narrower, the remaining, winding portions of the
spider 104 can be made wider, thus providing a larger surface area
for absorbing the stresses applied to the spider 104.
[0057] For example, as shown in FIGS. 1E and 1G, the arms 104d of
the spider 104 form a series of curved extensions that float
horizontally in the space between the dome 106 and the yoke 110. By
curving back and forth within this space, the arms 104d (also
referred to as "windings") increase an overall surface area for the
spider 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the spider 104 is
comprised of three arms 104d, each arm 104d having one end attached
to, or extending from, the outer spider edge 104a and the other end
attached to, or extending from, the inner spider edge 104b. In FIG.
1G, each arm 104d includes two floating extensions or curved
portions that are formed by winding or zigzagging back and forth to
fill the horizontal space between the ledge 106b of the dome 106
and the outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110. In other embodiments,
each arm 104d of the spider 104 may include fewer extensions or
windings, for example, as shown in FIGS. 3B and 4B, or more
windings than that shown in FIG. 1G. In some embodiments, the
spider 104 may include fewer or more than the three arms 104d
illustrated herein.
[0058] A conventional transducer would require a much larger
diameter to achieve the same level of performance as the transducer
100, including accommodating the larger moving mass and the higher
amount of stress resulting therefrom. The several windings of the
spider 104 can reduce an overall stress on the spider 104 by more
evenly distributing the applied stress across a larger surface
area, thus improving the durability of the transducer 100 and
resulting in a larger range of safe excursion for the transducer
100. The winding design of the spider 104 also helps maintain a
compact form factor for the overall transducer 100, as it allows a
diameter of the coil 116 and an outer diameter of the yoke 110 to
be close together, or substantially overlap.
[0059] In embodiments, the size, shape, and configuration of the
spider 104 can be selected in view of a number of design
considerations, in addition to or along with those discussed above.
For example, to provide a haptic transducer with a compact design
that is capable of fitting within the footplate of a shoe, it is
important to keep an overall outer diameter of the spider 104 as
small as possible. However, to provide a suspension 104 capable of
sturdy stress management for the transducer 100, it is also
important to provide sufficient surface area between the inner
spider edge 104b and the outer spider edge 104a to absorb the
stresses placed on the transducer 100. Furthermore, maintaining an
appropriately large distance, or clearance, between an inside
diameter of the spider 104, formed by the inner spider edge 104b,
and an outside diameter of the spider 104, formed by the outer
spider edge 104a, is critical for magnetic efficiency and
stability, speaker sensitivity, and power handling, and is easier
for production and quality control. For example, this clearance
provides the space required for allowing proper coil operation
without contacting the magnetic assembly. However, if the coil gap
is too large, the transducer 100 will not perform as well due to
low magnetic field strength and poor heat dissipation.
[0060] FIGS. 1A and 1G depict an exterior of the transducer 100 and
show that the electrical leads 102 are accessible for electrical
connection from the exterior of the transducer 100. Each of the
electrical leads 102 can be a metal contact pad disposed or
positioned on the top or external surface 106a of the dome 106 in
order to facilitate forming an electrical connection with an
external signal source. For example, electrical signals can be
applied to the coil 116 by electrically connecting the leads 102 to
a controller, a media player, a wireless receiver, or other
external signal source. FIG. 1F depicts the haptic transducer 100
with the dome 106 drawn in phantom or transparent lines, in order
to show that each electrical lead 102 is internally connected to
the coil 116 via a respective one of the electrical wires 118. The
dome structure 106 includes internal channels or slots 119
configured to securely receive or house the electrical wires 118
therein as they travel from the leads 102 to the coil 116, thus
providing fixed electrical connections between the two. The
channels 119 may be carved into, or formed within, a portion of the
top surface 106a, the ledge 106b, the sidewall 106c, and/or other
parts of the diaphragm 106 that fall within the pathway from the
leads 102 to the coil 116.
[0061] The fixed leads 102 of the present disclosure provide
several advantageous improvements over conventional haptic
transducers. For example, in conventional transducers, the
electrical leads are encased in a rigid structure but form
electrical connections with the coil that are designed to flex
and/or move along with the driver motion. As a result, conventional
leads are connected to the driver using glue and solder materials
that are carefully selected to provide an appropriate amount of
flex. However, such movement of the leads allows for failures. And
due to the flexible nature of these electrical connections, the
flex leads can form the weakest point of the conventional driver.
The present disclosure removes these design considerations and
concerns by fixedly attaching the electrical leads 102 to the coil
116 via the channels 119 for receiving the electrical wires 118 and
by providing metal contact pads 102 on an external surface of the
transducer 100 for receiving electrical signals, thereby allowing
for a more rugged connection between the coil 116 and the external
signal source.
[0062] The fixed electrical leads 102 also remove the need for a
frame. In conventional haptic transducers, the frame is needed to
allow passage of the electrical leads there through, the electrical
leads being accessible from an external surface of the frame. In
the haptic transducer 100 of the present disclosure, the dome 106
serves this function without the frame by including a platform for
receiving the electrical leads 102 on the top surface 106a of the
dome 106.
[0063] In some embodiments, the transducer 100 can further include
a top cover 120 configured to mechanically secure the spider 104 to
the driver. In conventional haptic transducers, a weight of the
moving mass within the driver is relatively low, such as, e.g., 1
gram (g), and therefore, a glue or other adhesive is sufficient to
secure the spider to the frame. In the present disclosure, the
weight of the moving mass within the driver is much heavier (e.g.,
80-100 g) and therefore, adhesive may not be enough to secure the
spider 104 to the dome 106 and/or yoke 110, or prevent the spider
104 from flying off during oscillation of the driver. Accordingly,
in addition to gluing the spider 104 to the dome 106 and/or the
yoke 110, the top cover 120 can be added to keep the spider 104 in
place. In some embodiments, the top cover 120 can have a two-piece
construction to reinforce the connection to the spider 104 on both
the outside and inside. For example, as shown in FIG. 1E, the top
cover 120 may include an outer collar 120a disposed around an outer
perimeter of the transducer 100 to secure the outer edge 104a of
the spider 104 to the outer ledge 110a of the yoke 110. The top
cover 120 may also include an inner collar 120b disposed around the
diaphragm 106 for securing the inner edge 104b of the spider 104 to
the ledge 106b of the diaphragm 106, as also shown in FIG. 1E.
[0064] Turning now to FIGS. 2A-2C, shown is an example footplate
200 configured for connection to the haptic transducer 100 and for
placement in a piece of footwear (e.g., shoe). In embodiments, the
footplate 200 may be part of a sole structure of the footwear for
providing structural support to a bottom of the footwear.
[0065] As an example, a typical sole structure includes an outsole
portion, which forms the bottom of the footwear, including the
external bottom surface that touches the ground, and an insole
portion, which forms the interior surface of the footwear that
contacts the user's foot or is otherwise the top most layer of the
sole structure. In some cases, the insole portion is made of a
soft, flexible material in order to provide comfort to the user's
foot. Coupled between the outsole and the insole is a midsole
portion (or "footplate") that is configured to attenuate ground
forces and other impacts to the foot during walking, running,
jumping, or other user movements. The midsole is made of a rigid or
semi-rigid material, such as, e.g., polyurethane or other polymer
foam, in order to support the user's foot and attenuate the
external impacts to the foot during user activity. The outsole
portion is further coupled to an upper portion (or "upper") of the
footwear, such that the insole and the footplate are fully encased
between the upper and the outsole.
[0066] Thus, the footplate 200 may be included between an insole
portion and an outsole portion of the sole structure included in a
piece of footwear (not shown). In some embodiments, the footplate
200 may include the insole portion. For example, the insole portion
may be fixedly attached to the footplate 200 during manufacturing,
so as to form a single unit. In such cases, the footplate 200 may
also be referred to as an "insole." In some embodiments, the
footplate 200 may be fixedly attached to the outsole portion during
manufacturing, so that the footplate and the outsole form a single
unitary piece. In such cases, the insole may be removably coupled
to, or inserted into, the piece of footwear, or may be fixedly
attached to the footplate 200.
[0067] In embodiments, the footplate 200 includes a tongue portion
202 on an underside of the footplate 200 that is configured to form
a tongue and groove connection with the attachment groove 108 of
the dome 106 of the transducer 100. The tongue portion 202 is
visible in FIG. 2A, which depicts a bottom perspective view of the
footplate 200 without the haptic transducer 100 in place. FIG. 2B
depicts a top perspective view of the footplate 200 coupled to the
haptic transducer 100, the footplate 200 being drawn partially
transparent in order to show the transducer 100 coupled to the
underside of the footplate 200. FIG. 2C depicts a cross-sectional
view of the shoe footplate 200 and the haptic transducer 100
inserted into the tongue portion 202 of the footplate 200.
[0068] As shown, each of the footplate 200 and the dome 106 can
include a combination of depressions and raised edges that are
configured to interconnect when the attachment groove 108 on the
top surface of the transducer 100 is inserted into the tongue
portion 202 of the footplate 200, or vice versa. For example, as
illustrated in FIG. 2C, the tongue portion 202 includes protrusions
or raised structures that extend down vertically from the underside
of the footplate 200 and are configured to fit into, or be received
by, the attachment groove 108 on the top surface of the transducer
100.
[0069] In some embodiments, an adhesive is also applied to one or
more of the transducer 100 and/or the footplate 200 to further
secure the connecting surfaces together. In certain embodiments,
the adhesive is loaded in shear, rather than in tension, to provide
a more reliable bond between the tongue portion 202 and the
attachment groove 108.
[0070] Thus, the tongue and groove connection described herein
provides the haptic transducer 100 with a fastener-less attachment
or integrated mounting technique. Moreover, due to the
pre-configured structures and depressions included therein, the
tongue and groove connection enables precise rotational and axial
alignment during installation of the haptic transducer 100, thereby
enabling easy and reliable assembly of the transducer 100 with the
footplate 200. For example, the attachment groove 108 can be
centered on the top surface of the transducer 100. Further, the
tongue portion 202 can be positioned on the footplate 200 so as to
maximize the haptic effect of the transducer signals. The tongue
and groove connection also provides a large surface area for
attaching the haptic transducer 100 to the footplate 200, thus
increasing a contact area between the footplate 200 and the driver.
As will be appreciated, the vibrations or haptic signals generated
by the haptic transducer 100 can be transferred to the footplate
200, and thereby, to the foot of the user, via this contact area.
At the same time, the tongue and groove connection can be
configured to leave a space between the underside of the footplate
200 and the spider 104 of the transducer 100, so that the driver
has enough room to oscillate during operation. For example, the
structures included on the underside of the footplate 200 can be
sized and shaped to avoid contact with the spider 104 or otherwise
extend too far past the top of the diaphragm 106.
[0071] In embodiments, the footplate 200 coupled to the haptic
transducer 100 forms a unitary piece configured for insertion into
any suitable piece of footwear, including shoes, sandals, etc. In
some embodiments, this unitary piece (also referred to herein as a
"vibrating footplate") is included in a footwear device configured
for enhancing an entertainment experience (e.g., a video game, a
movie, a musical piece, etc.), and/or an entertainment system for
use therewith, such as, for example, the vibrating footwear device
and entertainment system described in co-owned U.S. Pat. No.
8,644,967, the contents of which are incorporated by reference
herein in its entirety.
[0072] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate various views of another example
haptic transducer 300, in accordance with embodiments. The haptic
transducer 300 has dimensions of approximately 40 mm by 18.4 mm.
FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate various views of yet another example haptic
transducer 400, in accordance with embodiments. The haptic
transducer 400 has dimensions of approximately 40 mm by 15.7 mm.
While the overall shapes of the transducers 100, 300, and 400 may
differ, the functional, operational, and structural characteristics
of the transducers 300 and 400 may be substantially the same as
that of the transducer 100 described herein. Thus, for the sake of
brevity, the transducers 300 and 400 will not be described in
further detail.
[0073] FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6 through 8 illustrate another exemplary
haptic transducer 500 (also referred to herein as a "moving motor
transducer") in accordance with embodiments. In particular, FIGS.
5A and 5B depict top and bottom perspective views of the haptic
transducer 500, FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional
view of the haptic transducer 500, FIG. 7 depicts another top view
of the transducer 500, and FIG. 8 shows the transducer 500 coupled
to an exemplary footplate 600. Several components of the transducer
500 may be substantially similar to corresponding components of the
haptic transducer 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1G and described herein.
Accordingly, the corresponding components of the transducer 500
will not be described in great detail for the sake of brevity.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the transducer 500 may be
substantially similar to the haptic transducer 300 shown in FIGS.
3A to 3C and/or the transducer 400 shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C, instead
of the transducer 100.
[0074] As shown, the haptic transducer 500 comprises a pair of
fixed leads 502, a spider or suspension 504, and a diaphragm or
dome 506. The fixed leads 502, spider 504, and diaphragm 506 may be
substantially similar to the fixed leads 102, spider 104, and
diaphragm 106, respectively, shown in FIGS. 1A-1G. Likewise, a top
surface 506a of the diaphragm 506 may include an attachment groove
508 that is substantially similar to the attachment groove 108
shown in FIGS. 1A-1G.
[0075] The transducer 500 further comprises a motor 509 comprising
a yoke 510 and a magnetic assembly 511. As shown in FIGS. 5A and
5B, the yoke 510 is substantially similar to the yoke 110 shown in
FIGS. 1A-1G, forming the bottom surface and side walls of the
transducer 500 and supporting or attaching to the spider 504 at the
top. As shown in FIG. 6, the magnetic assembly 511 includes a
magnet 512 that is positioned within an inner cavity 513 or center
of the yoke 510 and is substantially similar to the magnet 112
shown in FIGS. 1A-1G. The magnetic assembly 511 also includes a top
plate 514 that sits above the magnet 512 and is substantially
similar to the top plate 114 shown in FIGS. 1A-1G. In some
embodiments, the magnetic assembly 511 further includes a bottom
plate positioned under the magnet, or between the magnet and the
yoke 510, for example, like the bottom plate 115 shown in FIGS.
1A-1G.
[0076] As shown in FIG. 6, the transducer 500 further comprises an
annular coil 516 that is coupled to the diaphragm 506 and is
substantially similar to the coil 116 shown in FIGS. 1A-1G. Only a
top end of the coil 516 may be attached to the diaphragm 506, such
that a bottom portion of the coil 516 is suspended or floating
within a magnetic gap 517, or open space, defined between the
sidewalls of the yoke 510 and the magnet 512. In embodiments, the
attachment or joint between the diaphragm 506 and the coil 516 is
positioned under the spider 504, as shown in FIG. 6, so that the
attachment point can travel into, or be disposed within, the
magnetic gap 517. This configuration can prevent the coil 516 from
limiting the excursion of the motor 509.
[0077] In embodiments, the motor 509 is also configured to be
floating, at least relative to the coil 516, by coupling only a top
diameter or edge of the yoke 510 (e.g., like ledge 110a shown in
FIG. 1E) to an outer diameter 504a of the spider 504 and by
coupling an inner diameter 504b of the spider 504 to a ledge 506b
of the diaphragm 506. As a result, the motor 509 is disconnected
from the coil 516 and therefore, can move independently of the coil
516.
[0078] The transducer 500 is configured such that a center of
gravity of the moving parts within the transducer 500 is aligned
with a central axis of the coil 516, and a majority of the mass
included in the transducer 500, i.e. most of the motor 509, is
positioned below the coil 516. As a result, as the floating motor
509 moves up and down within the transducer 500 during operation,
the movement is more evenly distributed along a central axis of the
transducer 500, thereby avoiding, or reducing the tendency for,
side to side movement, such as, e.g., rocking, tilting, or pendulum
motion. This increased stability is at least partially due to the
frameless design of the transducer 500, which helps move the center
of gravity of the motor 509 closer to the central axis of the coil
516.
[0079] As shown in FIG. 6, the spider 504 (also referred to herein
as a "suspension") is positioned above the coil 516 and above the
magnetic assembly 511 of the haptic transducer 500. As also shown,
the spider 504 is coupled between the ledge 506b of the diaphragm
506 and the top diameter or edge of the yoke 510, and the coil 516
is coupled to a lower sidewall 506c of the diaphragm 506 that
extends down from the ledge 506b. Such configuration of the spider
504, the coil 516, and the diaphragm 506 helps achieve the dual
goals of keeping an overall diameter of the transducer 500 as small
as possible to obtain a smaller overall form factor, and creating a
larger distance or clearance between the outer diameter or edge
504a and the inner diameter or edge 504b of the spider 504 for
improved coil operation. In some embodiments, the transducer 500
further includes a top cover 520 configured to mechanically secure
the spider 504 to the rest of the driver and thus, prevent it from
accidentally flying off or becoming disconnected from the driver
during oscillation of the driver.
[0080] Like the spider 104 shown in FIG. 1, the spider 504 can have
an annular shape with a plurality of arms 504d extending in a
razorback or winding design between the inner and outer edges of
the spider 504. The winding arms 504d are configured to reduce an
overall stress applied to the spider 504 by evenly distributing the
applied stress across the entire surface area of the spider 504. In
embodiments, the spider 504 may be configured to include a larger
number of windings in order to provide a larger surface area
between the inner and outer edges of the spider 504 for absorbing
the stresses placed on the transducer 500, without increasing the
overall size of the transducer 500.
[0081] While the spider 504 may be very good to dampening
oscillations of the coil 516 and the diaphragm 506 as they move
freely in the axial or vertical direction, it may not be as
successful at controlling a lateral motion of the motor 509
relative to the coil 516 and the diaphragm 506. Lateral motion may
be caused by an external mechanical shock to the transducer 500,
such as, e.g., a shock resulting from the transducer and its
containing product being dropped or thrown. Such motion, when left
unchecked, can cause the motor 509 to crash into, or collide with,
the coil 516, resulting in permanent damage to the particularly
delicate coil 516. Existing techniques for avoiding such collisions
is to add lateral stiffness through the addition of a second spring
element, in addition to the spider/suspension 504. However, this
typically increases an overall size or diameter of the
transducer.
[0082] According to embodiments, the transducer 500 can be
configured to limit free lateral motion of the motor 509 when the
lateral motion becomes too large due to an externally applied
mechanical shock, such as, e.g., throwing or dropping of the
footwear product. In particular, the transducer 500 comprises a
fastener 530 configured to provide a mechanical hard stop to the
otherwise free lateral motion of the transducer 500. As shown in
FIGS. 5A and 5B, the fastener 530 extends through the motor 509
towards the diaphragm 506 and may be coupled to at least a portion
of the diaphragm 506. However, the fastener 530 does not fix the
motor 509 to the diaphragm 506, or otherwise clamp these parts
together.
[0083] Instead, the transducer 500 further comprises a first hole
532 extending through the motor 509 for receiving a first portion
of the fastener 530 therein, and a second hole 534 that is axially
aligned with the first hole 532 and extends through the diaphragm
506 for receiving a second portion of the fastener 530 therein, as
shown in FIG. 6. The holes 532 and 534 are configured to create a
passageway through the transducer 500. For example, each hole 532,
534 may be axially aligned with a central axis of the transducer
500, such that the first hole 532 extends vertically through a
center of the motor 509 and the second hole 534 extends vertically
through a center of the diaphragm 506.
[0084] In embodiments, the fastener 530 may be configured to pass
through the first hole 532 without actually contacting an interior
wall 532a of the first hole 532, and may be configured to mate with
or be anchored in the second hole 534. This configuration enables
the fastener 530 to provide a more resilient impact point for any
time the transducer 500 experiences lateral motion due to dropping
or throwing, for example. More specifically, the fastener 530 and
the first hole 532 can be configured to introduce a controlled
clearance within the transducer 500 during lateral motion of the
motor 509. This controlled clearance may be designed to move the
impact point from the motor 509 with the coil 516 to a newly
created interface between the fastener 530 and the first hole 532.
To that end, the first hole 532 can be configured to provide a
predetermined gap or clearance between the fastener 530 and the
interior wall 532a of the first hole 532. For example, the fastener
530 may be a metallic screw, and the first hole 532 may be a
substantially round aperture with a diameter that is selected to be
larger than a diameter of the fastener 530 by a predetermined
amount.
[0085] In some embodiments, the clearance between the fastener 530
and the first hole 532 can be selected to be less than a lateral
clearance or gap 536 provided between the coil 516 and the magnetic
assembly 511. In such cases, any lateral, or side to side, motion
of the motor 509 will result in the fastener 530 colliding with the
interior wall 532a of the first hole 532 before the motor 509 can
travel far enough to reach the coil 516.
[0086] In other embodiments, the transducer 500 further comprises a
bushing element 538 disposed within the first hole 532 and
configured to line the interior wall 532a of the first hole 532. In
such cases, the bushing element 538 may surround the fastener 530,
so that the clearance or distance between the fastener 530 and the
interior wall 532a is reduced by a thickness of the bushing element
538, as shown in FIG. 6. The thickness of the bushing element 538,
as well as the diameter of the first hole 532, may be selected so
that a lateral distance 540 (also referred to herein as a "first
lateral clearance") between the bushing element 538 and the
fastener 530 is smaller than the gap 536 (also referred to herein
as a "second lateral clearance") between the coil 516 and the
magnetic assembly 511. As a result, any lateral motion of the motor
509 relative to the coil 516 will result in the bushing element 538
colliding with the fastener 530 before the motor 509 reaches the
coil 516. Because this new impact point is more resilient than the
coil 516, the transducer 500 may be better able to withstand the
impact without resulting in permanent damage.
[0087] The bushing element 538 may be a metal lining, a sleeve or
insert made of polyurethane or other plastic, a coating, or any
other suitable component for lining the interior wall 532a of the
first hole 532. In some embodiments, the bushing element 538 may
completely cover the interior wall 532a or otherwise extend through
the entire first hole 532. In other embodiments, the bushing
element 538 may cover only a portion of the first hole 532 or
extend partially up the interior wall 532a, for example, as shown
in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the bushing element 538 may be
further configured to extend outside the first hole 532 adjacent a
bottom surface 510a of the yoke 510. For example, as shown in FIG.
5B, the bushing element 538 may include a lip portion 538a that is
coupled to, or rests on, the yoke 510 and forms an annular ring
around an entrance side 532b of the first hole 532, i.e. where the
fastener 530 enters the hole 532.
[0088] In other embodiments, the bushing element may extend outside
the opposite or exit end of the first hole. For example, FIG. 9
depicts an exemplary moving motor transducer 700 in which a
fastener 730 is coupled to a first hole 732 running through a motor
709 of the transducer 700 and a bushing element 738 lines at least
a portion of the first hole 732 and extends out from an exit side
732c of the first hole 732, or where the fastener 730 exits the
hole 732, in accordance with certain embodiments. As shown, the
bushing element 738 includes a lip portion 738a that is coupled to,
or rests on, a top plate 714 of a magnetic assembly 711 included in
the motor 709, and forms an annular ring around the exit side 732c
of the first hole 732. The transducer 700 may be substantially
similar to the transducer 500 other than the different
configuration of the bushing element 738. As another example, if
the magnetic assembly includes the magnet but not the top plate,
the bushing element may extend out of the exit side of the first
hole and couple to, or rest on, the magnet instead of the top
plate.
[0089] As shown in FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the transducer 700
may include a support structure 746 disposed between the first hole
532 and the second hole 534. The support structure 746 may be
configured to protect the transducer 700 from external stresses or
shocks due to, for example, bending of the shoe during walking and
other activities. A similar support structure 746 may be included
in the transducer 500, though not shown in the figures.
[0090] Referring back to FIGS. 5A and 5B, in some embodiments, the
fastener 530 can be configured to extend through both the first
hole 532 and the second hole 534. More specifically, a first end
530a (or head) of the fastener 530 may be disposed adjacent the
outer or bottom surface 510a of the yoke 510, as shown in FIG. 5B,
and an opposing second end 530b of the fastener 530 may extend out
from the second hole 534 adjacent the top surface 506a of the
diaphragm 506, as shown in FIG. 5A. In other embodiments, the
fastener 530 can be configured to extend through the first hole 532
and extend only partially into the second hole 534, such that the
second end 530b resides within the second hole 534, for example, as
shown in FIG. 6.
[0091] In either case, the transducer 500 can further comprise a
mating element 542 disposed in the second hole 534 and configured
to secure or anchor the fastener 530 to the second hole 534. As
shown in FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the mating element 542
includes a threaded wall 542a configured for attachment to a
threaded surface 530c of the fastener 530. For example, the mating
element 542 may be a nut or other annular mechanism with a threaded
internal wall. In other embodiments, the mating element 542 may be
configured to use other mechanical attachment techniques for
securing or mating the fastener 530 to the second hole 534 (e.g.,
press fitting, adhesive, etc.).
[0092] In FIG. 7, the threaded wall 542a is visible because the
haptic transducer 500 is shown without the fastener 530 (also
referred to herein as the "first fastener") extending out from the
second hole 534. As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the
mating element 542 is further configured to secure a second
fastener 544 to the second hole 534. In such cases, the second
fastener 544 extends into the second hole 534 from the top surface
506a of the diaphragm 506. For example, the second fastener 544 may
be secured to a top section of the mating element 542 (e.g., the
section shown in FIG. 7), and the first fastener 530 may be secured
to a bottom section of the mating element 542 (e.g., as shown in
FIG. 6).
[0093] In embodiments, the second fastener 544 may be used to
secure the haptic transducer 500 to footplate 600. The footplate
600 may be configured for placement in a piece of footwear and may
be substantially similar to the footplate 200 shown in FIGS. 2A to
2C. In some embodiments, the haptic transducer 500 and the
footplate 600 may form a vibrating footplate system 650, wherein
the transducer 500 is configured to transfer haptic sensations to a
foot placed adjacent to the footplate 600, or in the piece of
footwear containing the footplate 600. The first and second
fasteners 530 and 544 may also form part of the footplate system
650. As will be appreciated, the user's foot may contact an insole
resting above or coupled to the footplate 600, rather than directly
contacting the footplate 600.
[0094] In some cases, the footplate 600 may be mechanically coupled
to the transducer 500 using a tongue and groove attachment, as
described herein and shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C, and/or an adhesive
bond, in addition to the second fastener 544. In other cases, the
second fastener 544 may be used in place of such couplings to
provide a more robust joint between the footplate 600 and the
transducer 500. For example, it may be difficult to successfully
bond the transducer 500 and the footplate 600 with an adhesive due
to the different types of materials used, such as, for example,
polycarbonate plastic for the transducer diaphragm 506 and nylon
for the footplate 600. Also, an adhesive joint may not be as robust
as the fastener 544 against mechanical shocks due to dropping or
throwing the footwear product.
[0095] To maximize the transfer of vibrations generated by the
transducer 500, the second fastener 544 (also referred to herein as
a "top fastener") may be configured to secure the top surface 506a
of the diaphragm 506 to an underside 604 of the footplate 600. More
specifically, a head portion 544a of the second fastener 544 may be
disposed adjacent, or may be coupled to, a top side 606 of the
footplate 600, and a threaded portion 544b of the second fastener
544 can be secured or coupled to the threaded wall 542a in the top
section of the mating element 542. The footplate 600 may comprise a
hole or aperture 608 configured to receive the second fastener 544
there through. As shown in FIG. 8, the first fastener 530 (also
referred to herein as a "bottom fastener") is still inserted
through the outer yoke surface 510a of the transducer 500 for
coupling to the motor 509 and diaphragm 506, as described
herein.
[0096] FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative fastening mechanism for
coupling the haptic transducer 500 to the footplate 600, in
accordance with embodiment. In particular, instead of the second
fastener 544, the transducer 500 is secured to the footplate 600
using the first fastener 530 and a complementary nut 548 (also
referred to herein as a "third fastener") disposed at the top
surface 606 of the footplate 600. As shown, the first fastener 530
may be configured to extend through the entire haptic transducer
500, including both the first hole 532 and the second hole 534,
through the footplate 600, or the aperture 608 formed through the
footplate 600, and up to a fixed distance above the top surface
606. In embodiments, a length of the first fastener 530 may be
selected so that the fastener 530 reaches from the bottom surface
510a of the transducer 500 to the fixed distance above the
footplate top surface 606. The nut 548 may be secured to the free
or second end 530b of the first fastener 530 using a threaded
interior wall of the nut 548, which may be configured to receive,
or be secured to, the threaded outer wall 530c of the first
fastener 530. As will be appreciated, though FIG. 10 shows a nut,
other suitable types of securements or fasteners capable of
securely attaching the fastener end 530b to the footplate top
surface 606 may be used.
[0097] Thus, the techniques described herein provide an improved
haptic transducer configured for attachment to a footplate and for
withstanding externally applied mechanical shocks that cause
lateral movement of the motor without suffering permanent damage to
the voice coil, in particular. The haptic transducer is able to
experience extreme lateral motion without damage due to insertion
of a fastener (e.g., metallic screw) through a center of the
transducer, the fastener passing through the motor and into the
dome. The fastener end is coupled to a mating element (e.g., nut)
included in the dome, or in the hole formed through the dome for
receiving the fastener. The mating element is configured to anchor
the fastener to the dome. In addition, a bushing element is
included between the fastener and the motor to line the hole formed
through the motor for receiving the fastener. The bushing element
may be configured so that a clearance between the bushing element
and the fastener is smaller than a clearance between the motor and
the voice coil. This introduces a controlled clearance during
lateral motion of the motor relative to the coil by defining the
impact point during such motion to be the bushing element and the
fastener, rather than the motor and the coil, as is conventional.
This impact point is much more resilient and thus, enables the
transducer to experience externally applied mechanical shocks
without being permanently damaged. The mating element in the dome
may also be configured to receive a second fastener (e.g., metallic
screw) that is configured to couple the footplate to the top of the
transducer.
[0098] Any process descriptions or blocks in the figures, should be
understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code
that include one or more executable instructions for implementing
specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate
implementations are included within the scope of the embodiments
described herein, in which functions may be executed out of order
from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently
or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as
would be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art.
[0099] The above-described embodiments, and particularly any
"preferred" embodiments, are possible examples of implementations
and merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of
the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the
above-described embodiment(s) without substantially departing from
the spirit and principles of the techniques described herein. All
modifications are intended to be included herein within the scope
of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.
* * * * *